COLUMN: From GED to creativity: Lifelong learning for all

One of the programs the Owen County Public Library is proud to offer the community is the Lifelong Learning Center; our adult education program.

The center provides a welcoming environment where adult learners can expand their knowledge, develop new skills and pursue their educational and personal goals with confidence. We offer a wide variety of courses designed to meet different interests and needs. Whether you're looking to gain new job skills, explore creative maker projects, earn a career certification or complete your high school equivalency diploma, chances are we have a class for you, or are at little to no cost.

We are best known for our High School Equivalency (HSE) program, often referred to as the GED. To better serve our students, we proudly offer these classes twice a week. We fit a variety of schedules. Last year alone, 21 students successfully graduated from the program. Since 2010, the center has celebrated more than 380 HSE graduates, and we look forward to watching that number continue to grow in the years ahead.

In addition to GED classes, we offer a variety of industry-recognized certification courses for those looking to strengthen or expand their skills. Currently, our programs include certification in Microsoft Excel and QuickBooks. This year, we are excited to expand our offerings with three new options; CompTIA A+, Salesforce and HVAC.

If you're looking for a more creative outlet, our maker classes may be just what you need. We offer everything from 3D printing, laser engraving, 3D printing and digital design with Cricut. These classes not only spark creativity but also give you the opportunity to explore and master some of today's most exciting creative technologies.

The Lifelong Learning Center is more than just a place to take classes—it's a community where adult learners are encouraged, supported and empowered to achieve their goals. With programs that span academic achievement, career development and creative exploration, the center provides opportunities for growth in every area of life. No matter your interest or experience level, the Lifelong Learning Center is here to help you learn, create and succeed—often at little to no cost.

We invite everyone in the community to take the next step in their learning journey with us.

To enroll in one of our courses, students must be at least 16 years old and no longer enrolled in school. To learn more about our programs, email our Adult Education Coordinator, Jamie, at jamieh@owenlib.org, or call 812-829-3392 ext. 212.